Why Do Children Struggle With Fractions in Primary School?

If your child is in Primary 3 or above, chances are you've already encountered the frustration of fraction homework. Fractions are consistently one of the most challenging topics in Singapore primary school mathematics. At By The Roots in Bukit Timah Plaza, we work with students across Primary 3 to Primary 6 who find fractions confusing. And in most cases, the solution isn't more worksheets. It's building better understanding from the ground up.

Why Are Fractions So Difficult?

Fractions are the first concept in primary school that asks children to think differently about numbers. Before fractions, mathematics is about counting: 3 apples. 10 pencils. 50 cents. Fractions introduce a new idea: part of a whole. This shift in thinking is harder than many parents realise.

Common Misconceptions Students Have About Fractions

·         Treating numerator and denominator as two separate whole numbers

·         Adding denominators when adding fractions — e.g. 1/2 + 1/3 = 2/5

·         Confusing fraction of a set with fraction of a shape

·         Not knowing what "the whole" refers to in word problems

These aren't signs of inability. They're signs that the foundational concept hasn't been fully understood.

Why Memorising Steps Doesn't Work for Fractions

Many students are taught: "Find the lowest common multiple. Then add the numerators." This works temporarily. But when fractions appear in word problems — or alongside ratio and percentage — students struggle. Because they never understood why the method works.

Signs Your Child May Have a Fraction Gap

·         They can do simple fraction sums but lose marks on word problems

·         They frequently confuse when to add versus multiply fractions

·         They can't explain what 3/4 means without pointing at a diagram

·         Their understanding of ratio and percentage is also weak

How We Teach Fractions at By The Roots

At By The Roots in Bukit Timah Plaza, we don't rush to procedures. First, we make sure students truly understand:

·         What a fraction represents

·         What "the whole" means in different contexts

·         How fractions relate to division

We use:

·         Physical fraction tiles

·         Fraction cards

·         Bar models

·         Discussion and explanation

When students can explain a fraction concept in their own words, they're ready for procedures.

Final Thoughts

Fractions aren't inherently difficult. They're difficult when understanding is skipped. With the right foundation, most students find that fractions become manageable — and even enjoyable.

Ready to Help Your Child Build Stronger Fraction Skills?

We offer a free trial lesson at our centre in Bukit Timah Plaza.

👉 Contact us to arrange a trial class today.